Seasonal Fare on Florida’s Historic Coast

No matter what time of year, fresh is always in season around here.

Consider this: you’re surrounded by waters teeming with fish. Your backyard is a checkerboard of farms growing all sorts of fruits, vegetables and herbs. Is it any surprise that local restaurants offer the finest, freshest fare year round? Of course not. From fresh-caught grouper and Mayport shrimp to golden beets and spicy datil peppers, chefs on Florida’s Historic Coast are masters at creating global cuisine with a decidedly local flavor.

Many restaurants in the area offers seasonal menus or specials highlighting farm-to-fork and sea-to-table delicacies. But here are a few that you might find especially tempting. If you love seafood, Chef Joshua Smith at Catch 27 will hook you with its daily selection of locally-caught fish, shrimp and clams, all prepared from scratch with locally-sourced ingredients and produce. Try the crab and heirloom tomato bruschetta and the rustic bowl of seasonal summer vegetables with rice. Top it off with a crusted local snapper served with seasonal vegetables. You’ll want to try everything on the menu.

Michael’s, located at the Hyatt on Vilano, is the brainchild of Chef Michael Lugo offering both surf and turf specialties ranging from tiger shrimp to smoked tomahawk ribeye. With menus dedicated to quality and locally-grown and sustainable ingredients, you’ll find delectable selections such as shrimp mofongo, grilled broccolini and seasonal market vegetables, to name a few. One taste and you’ll understand why Michael has won so many culinary awards.

If you’re in love with good food, or just in love, Collage is a perfectly romantic place to celebrate your feelings. The ambience is both intimate and welcoming. And the dishes simply irresistible. There’s always a seasonal menu featuring appetizers, salads and main dishes specially prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. Try the sea scallops wrapped in prosciutto and sage, a seasonal salad with roasted squash and pork tenderloin with charred broccolini. You’ll find it hard to pick just one.

Lotus Noodle Bar celebrates the seasons with a menu that highlights fresh, locally inspired ingredients woven into traditional Asian flavors. Each dish reflects the time of year, from light, refreshing bowls filled with vibrant vegetables in the warmer months to heartier, warming broths perfect for cooler evenings. Guests can expect thoughtfully crafted noodle bowls and small plates that not only showcase the restaurant’s culinary creativity but also invite them to savor the rhythm of the seasons in every bite.

At Castillo Craft Bar & Kitchen, the emphasis is on North Florida cuisine showcasing fresh, local seafood, produce and unique offerings from nearby craft breweries and distilleries. The house-made crab cakes are served with local datil pepper remoulade. For vegetarians, the cauliflower steak is a hit as are the regional farm vegetables and fried brussels sprouts. Enjoy with a selection of locally-brewed beers or a delicious craft cocktail made with locally-distilled liquors.

The Floridian is known far and wide for its authentic Southern comfort cuisine and hospitality. Long-time supporters of local growers, renowned Chefs Genie and Jeff McNally change their menus continually throughout the seasons to keep their dishes fresh and exciting. Currently building a new restaurant to open Spring 2026 on Anastasia Island, diners can still enjoy fresh, farm-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients at Bea’s Fine Foods and All Day Café and Jefe’s Fish Wagon just across the Bridge of Lions. From breakfast to supper, this “Floridian’s Little Sister” is as local as it gets.

Discover what makes Florida’s Historic Coast a mecca for diners who crave authentic, fresh and locally-sourced seasonal fare. Be sure to check out all our fine restaurants here.

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